“WADA is pleased to publish the 2017 Prohibited List, which is one of five International Standards that are mandatory for all signatories of the World Anti-Doping Code (Code) to follow,” said WADA President, Sir Craig Reedie. “All athletes around the world are held to these standards and there can be no tolerance for people who intentionally break the rules,” Reedie continued. “Updated annually, the List is released three months ahead of taking effect so that all stakeholders – in particular athletes and their entourage — have ample time to familiarize themselves with the List and its modifications,” he said.

“The Prohibited List follows a very extensive stakeholder review process over the course of nine months,” said Director General, Olivier Niggli. “In reviewing the List, experts examine such sources as: scientific and medical research; trends; and, intelligence gathered from law enforcement and pharmaceutical companies in order to stay ahead of those that wish to cheat,” Niggli continued. “It is vital that all athletes take the necessary time to consult the List; and that, they contact their respective anti-doping organizations (ADOs) if they have any doubts as to the status of a substance or method,” said Niggli.

The List’s annual revision process is led by WADA, beginning with an initial meeting in January and concluding with the publication of the List by 1 October. This is an extensive nine-month consultation process which includes gathering information, circulating a draft list, stakeholder submissions, committee recommendations and the approval of the List by WADA’s Executive Committee during its September meeting.

It should be noted that, for athletes who have a legitimate medical reason for using a prohibited substance or method that is on the List, they can be accommodated via the International Standard for Therapeutic Use Exemptions (ISTUE), which has overwhelming acceptance from athletes, physicians and anti-doping stakeholders worldwide.